TSTC, LMI to host summer robotics camp

May 7, 2013

Texas State Technical College (shown) and Ludlum Measurements are presenting a Summer Robotics Camp from June 3-6, 2013 at The Center on the TSTC Sweetwater campus for students entering grades four through seven.

TSTC (Texas State Technical College) and Ludlum Measurements are presenting a Summer Robotics Camp from June 3-6, 2013 at The Center on the TSTC Sweetwater campus for students entering grades four through seven.
Participants can experience the wonder and excitement of designing and programming robots in a collegial environment, while also choosing to experience other fun activities that include art, math, medicine or technology.
Sessions are broken into half-day and full-day camps so that students can select the best choice for them. Everyone will receive a free t-shirt and goodie bag.
The robotics section will give participants an opportunity to program the Lego Mindstorms NXT module, either in a beginning class or advanced program.
In the basic program, students will get started with NXT programming in the special LEGO NXT LabView environment. This includes upload/download with the NXT module, basic movement instructions, concepts of programming such as loops and switches, using "switch" to respond to inputs, and simple loops.
The advanced robotics section will also get students involved with automating NXT robot motion. This includes recording macros to repeat a given set of instructions; setting up each of the main sensor types--ultrasound, microphone, optical and pushbutton; using switches/loops to control behavior; and the concepts of automation in industry.
Participants will also dive into the world of engineering by building robots using the Lego Mindstorms NXT module. Basic and advanced engineering sections are tentatively set, with the main difference being the difficulty level of the build projects.
The engineering section will include the concepts of structure--static force, torque, stress and strain; basic building techniques; and advanced building techniques.
The morning half-day session will run from 9 a.m. to 12 noon while the afternoon session will run from 1-4 p.m.; each session will cost $75. Students can also sign up for the full day camp from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the cost of $150 with lunch provided.
Participants can choose to take part in the beginning or advanced robotics program. If the participant chooses to attend all day, they have a choice in what other activity they would like to participate in, in addition to the engineering and robotics.
Students will be able to list their first two choices for the additional activity in the full-day camp.
In the art elective, students can discover their artistic side and be inspired to create their own masterpieces in lots of fun materials. Participants can either build, sketch and paint, while also discovering the arts through imaginative games, activities and art making.
The math course allows kids to participate in fun, hands-on activities involving new and familiar math skills. They will also incorporate these skills into real world applications, such as the wind energy and nursing programs here at TSTC.
During the medicine class, this field can be explored to find out where students' interests lie in the world of the healthcare profession and what can be done to achieve their educational and professional goals. Students get hands-on-training in CPR/first aid along with the opportunity to visit Rolling Plains Memorial Hospital and Sweetwater Fire Department.
In the technology class, participants will learn and experience a variety of technology skills including iPads, digital cameras, jump drives, and Microsoft Office programs. They will also visit the Technology and Communication department at TSTC.
Registration forms can be returned to TSTC, Attn: Joni Coons-Wellness Coordinator, 300 Homer K. Taylor Drive, Sweetwater, TX 79556. Checks can be made out to TSTC, and registration is due by May 22.